The plant you are interested in is the Euphorbia acrurensis, which is often confused with and sold as its very similar relative, the Euphorbia ingens, hence its common name, the 'Cowboy Cactus' or Candelabra Tree. Your specimen, standing at a height of 60cm in its 24cm pot, is a substantial and striking addition that brings unique desert charm and architectural greenery to any space.

🌿 Foliage, Form, and Appearance

The Euphorbia acrurensis is a large, evergreen succulent, meaning it retains its green structure year-round. It is not a true cactus but belongs to the large Euphorbia family, and its structure is defined by its striking vertical growth. It forms thick, segmented, knobby stems that branch out in an upright, candelabra fashion, giving it its unique shape and making it a conversation starter. The stem segments are typically ribbed and a vibrant green colour.

• Foliage: The leaves are usually tiny and ephemeral, dropping off quickly, so the photosynthesis is primarily done by the stem itself.

• Spines: This plant does have spines (small, stiff thorns) along the ridges of its stems, adding to its striking desert appearance.

• Benefits: Beyond its aesthetic value and ability to add a contemporary desert ambiance to your interior, this plant is known to contribute to cleaner indoor air through its air-purification qualities. It is also a sustainable choice, capable of thriving for many years with proper care.

📏 Size and Growth

At 60cm, your plant is already a handsome size. While Euphorbia acrurensis can grow into a massive tree outdoors, indoors its height is constrained by its pot and environment. However, it can still grow quite tall, reaching heights of 1.5 to 2.5 metres, making it a robust and impressive display piece.

🌸 Flowering and Fragrance

Euphorbias rarely flower indoors. When they do, they produce small, inconspicuous yellowish-green blooms called cyathia. These tiny flowers are not the plant's main attraction and are generally not notably fragrant. The plant is grown entirely for its striking structural form.

💧 Care and Environment

The 'Cowboy Cactus' is a succulent plant and is noted for its easy maintenance and resilience, making it a graceful choice for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts.

• Placement: It requires a very bright location. Place it in a sunny spot where it receives plenty of light, ideally including some direct sunlight, as this promotes sturdy, vertical growth.

• Water Requirement: It has a low water requirement and can tolerate drier conditions. You should treat it like a desert succulent: water thoroughly but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between watering sessions to prevent root rot. Watering frequency should be greatly reduced during the winter months.

Note: All Euphorbia species produce a white, milky sap called latex when cut or damaged. This sap is generally considered toxic and can be an irritant to skin and eyes. Ensure caution is used when handling or pruning the plant, and keep it out of reach of pets and children.